Disney Tips Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
Dining at Walt Disney World can be just as magical as riding the attractions, especially when you book one of the most sought-after restaurants on the property. But some dining reservations are extremely hard to snag, making these experiences even more special. If you dream of eating in a castle or enjoying character dining with Mickey, you’ll need to plan in advance and be ready to pounce the moment reservations open.
Here’s our guide to the 10 most difficult dining reservations at Walt Disney World and why they’re so popular.
1. Storybook Dining at Artist Point – Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort
After transforming into Storybook Dining, this spot has become one of the toughest reservations to score. Located at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, the restaurant offers an enchanting character dining experience featuring Snow White, Dopey, Grumpy, and the Evil Queen. Guests love the whimsical atmosphere and the chance to meet these rare characters.
Pro Tip: Reservations fill up fast, so try to secure your spot as soon as your booking window opens—currently 60 days in advance.
Credit: Disney Tips
2. Be Our Guest Restaurant – Fantasyland, Magic Kingdom
Be Our Guest offers one of the most magical dining experiences in Magic Kingdom. Located inside the Beast’s enchanted castle, the setting immerses guests in the world of Beauty and the Beast. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but dinner is the most coveted, with a prix fixe menu and the chance to meet The Beast.
Because dining slots fill up almost instantly, this should be one of the first reservations you book. Same-day walk-ins are rare, so plan early to avoid disappointment.
3. Cinderella’s Royal Table – Fantasyland, Magic Kingdom
Located inside Cinderella Castle, this is one of the most in-demand restaurants at Disney World. Guests get to dine like royalty with princess character interactions during their meal, which makes it a favorite for families. The exclusivity of dining inside the castle and the character meet-and-greets make reservations extremely competitive.
Booking Tip: Make this reservation as soon as the 60-day window opens—especially if you’re planning to celebrate a special occasion.
4. Le Cellier Steakhouse – Canada Pavilion, EPCOT
Known for serving some of the best steaks on property, Le Cellier is a Signature Dining location that offers an upscale, romantic atmosphere. Located in the Canada Pavilion at EPCOT, this restaurant is perfect for date nights or special celebrations. With limited seating, tables book up quickly.
Plan Ahead: Try to secure your reservation for lunch or dinner as early as possible, as availability can be very limited.
5. Victoria & Albert’s – Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
As Disney’s most exclusive and luxurious dining experience, Victoria & Albert’s is also one of the hardest reservations to get. The prix fixe menu features world-class cuisine and wine pairings. With multiple dining room options, including the Chef’s Table, this is a bucket-list experience for many Disney fans.
Credit: Disney
Important: This restaurant has a strict dress code, so be sure to pack formalwear if you plan to dine here. Reservations fill up quickly, and cancellations are rare.
6. Chef Mickey’s – Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Chef Mickey’s offers a fun character dining experience with Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and friends. It’s one of the few places to meet these classic characters outside the parks, making it a popular choice for families. Located at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, it’s also a convenient option for guests visiting the Magic Kingdom.
Pro Tip: Since Chef Mickey’s serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you have more chances to secure a reservation—but act fast because slots fill up quickly!
7. ‘Ohana – Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
‘Ohana is beloved for both its character breakfast and family-style dinner. Breakfast features appearances from Lilo, Stitch, and other friends, while dinner includes delicious skewers, dumplings, and the famous ‘Ohana bread pudding. The family-style service and lively atmosphere make it one of the most popular dining options at Walt Disney World.
Insider Tip: Book your reservation as soon as the 60-day window opens, especially if you’re planning to dine at a prime time like dinner.
8. Akershus Royal Banquet Hall – Norway Pavilion, EPCOT
Akershus offers a princess-themed dining experience similar to Cinderella’s Royal Table but with a Norwegian twist. Guests can enjoy a buffet-style meal while meeting characters like Belle, Ariel, and Snow White. Located in EPCOT’s Norway Pavilion, Akershus is an excellent alternative for guests who can’t get into Cinderella’s Royal Table.
Plan Ahead: Since it’s very popular with families, you’ll need to book early to secure a spot.
9. California Grill – Disney’s Contemporary Resort
California Grill is known for its incredible views of Magic Kingdom’s fireworks, making it a top choice for date nights and celebrations. Guests can enjoy a seasonal menu with California-inspired flavors and a spectacular view from the restaurant’s rooftop.
Credit: Disney
Pro Tip: Try to time your reservation to coincide with the fireworks, or request a table by the window for the best view.
10. Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant – Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater offers one of the most unique dining experiences at Walt Disney World. Guests dine inside classic cars while watching clips from old sci-fi movies on a giant drive-in screen. The quirky atmosphere and varied menu (featuring burgers, pasta, and salads) make it a fan favorite.
Booking Tip: Because table-service dining options are limited at Hollywood Studios, reservations for this restaurant fill up quickly. Be sure to book early to enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience.
Tips for Booking Hard-to-Get Reservations
- Book 60 Days in Advance
Reservations for Disney restaurants open 60 days in advance, and for popular spots, they fill up quickly. Be ready to book right when your window opens. - Check for Cancellations
If you didn’t get your desired reservation, keep checking the My Disney Experience app—guests often cancel closer to the date. - Use Mobile Check-In
For some restaurants, mobile check-in may allow you to join the walk-up list if spots become available. It’s worth checking when you’re nearby.
Final Thoughts
Dining at Walt Disney World is part of the magic, but the most popular restaurants require some planning and strategy. From the storybook charm of Cinderella’s Royal Table to the upscale elegance of Victoria & Albert’s, these dining experiences are well worth the effort it takes to secure a reservation.
With a little patience and planning, you’ll be able to enjoy some of the best food and character dining Disney has to offer.
